It's Friday, why not join me sharing a crafty oldie?

Good morning and how are you today?
It's still dark just now so I can't give you a weather forecast although it is set to rain for most of the day if the TV forecast is correct.  A perfect day to stay in the warm and craft!
I had a busy day yesterday cracking on with all my ironing and housework chores so I could get some of my card orders done today.  I have my parents arriving next week so I intend on having a bit of a tidy up over the weekend too.  It is always an incentive to tidy when you know "Mum" is coming!

Back to today and you know the drill by now.  I started share an oldie on a Friday to be able to revisit old crafty projects and hoped that you would enjoy it as much as I do.  I find it fascinating seeing everyone's crafty journey.
All I ask when you join me is to leave a wee comment below, that is purely to let me know you are joining in and so I can link to your blog too.  I will comment on all over the coming weekend.

Today I have something a little different for you.  This was part of a gift pack in 2010 for one of my eldest boys teachers new baby.

Inside the egg box.

I used papers from the Basic Grey range Archaic and the chipboard shapes and brads.  I added a bit of stitching...google eyes...a small tag from SU marked "baby" a bit of ribbon and a charm marked "love".  

The egg box I wanted to keep as simple as possible and basically took the paper from the supermarket off and used as a template to cut the BG, to which I added a brad and chipboard.  Everything has been inked with Vintage photo distress ink from the Ranger pads.

I also bought a little hoody with dinosaurs on and a first book of Dinosaurs to match!

Inside the egg box I added 2 pair of first size socks and scratch mitts plus bigger dino socks to go with the hoody.

I love the egg box idea and have used it quite often for baby's first socks and scratch mitts.  

Another case of a little recycling.  Us crafters have been recycling long before it became trendy!

I had meant to post yesterday but took full advantage of being in housework and ironing mode, it doesn't happen often.  I did manage a quick photograph of the dog who decided to be right next to me whilst I was ironing in the front room.

I think in my next life I would like to come back as a wee dog in a nice home!

It's a dogs life.

She looks so peaceful whilst I was busy.

That's all from me today, talking of the dog she is raring to go out for her morning walk.  I'll be back later to check out your oldies, enjoy your Friday.  

"Hump day" what are you crafting?

Good afternoon and how are you this Wednesday?
That's me home from work, now what to do?
I have lots of things I should be doing, a few bespoke cards and presents plus all the usual household chores.  A cup of tea first I think.

Today I have a CAS birthday card, I was asked for a large 60th with flowers in blue and orange.

Brief covered.
I freely admit to doing quite a lot of this style of card.  I have been making them for years but folk always come back for them.  I guess clean and simple lines are popular.
I've already got requests for another three of this style, not very exciting to share with yourselves but it is what people who are none crafty want, certainly from me anyway.

On the upside look what we now have in store, well we actually have the 3 pack.  Mmmmm!

I resisted grabbing a packet today, we also have new chocolate ones too.  

I think I shall NEED to taste test them if only so I can recommend them to customers.  

(That's my excuse and I'm sticking with it!)

I shall keep you posted on the results!

That's all from me for today.  I better go and get productive.  Catch you again tomorrow.

Making and baking!

Good morning, I hope you are well today?
I am working today and tomorrow so I've been organised writing this yesterday.

I'm starting with a question today.
Is it just me or do sometimes you think, "mmmm I just fancy a ............"
This happened to me on Sunday, I really just fancied a scone.  Now I used to make scones a lot but just lately it is usually my kids asking for cheese scones.  Sunday I had a hankering for a fruit scone and having had my husbands friend come over asking if I'd baked and then my eldest boy asking "Mum are you baking today?"
I thought I better get my apron on.

I do like butter on a scone but as hubby is from Devon I do occasionally push the boat out and have homemade raspberry jam and cream.
There's no wonder I don't lose weight.
Why can't cakes, scones and biscuits be diet food, I'd be so skinny!
Seriously I really must get back on track before the summer months I just don't seem to have the enthusiasm to be good at this time of year.
Do you find that too?

Back to card making and one of my recent card orders for a friend was for a new home card.  This wasn't a normal new home card because the recipients have just moved into an old Station house, I was asked to include this within the theme.
This is what I came up with.

The wee hoose is a stamp by Hero arts and I've paper pieced it with scraps of paper.  The railway line is some American clip art I've had for a long time which I have decoupaged to make it 3D.   The printing has been done on the computer then I have layered it on coordinating card stock.   The card is A5, I haven't made many this size for a while as most people normal ask for square cards now.
Do you have a favourite size of card you like to work with?

That's all from me today, I am hoping to get a couple more cards made this evening then I might settle down with some more crocheting.  Enjoy your Tuesday, more from me tomorrow.

A wee Scottish altering, crafty style of course.

Good afternoon and how are you this crisp and cold Monday?  Winter is definitely here, it is cold and frosty but I do enjoy these days more than wet and windy.  The sky is blue and as long as you wrap up warm, the cold just gives you that early morning boost to wake up the system.
Did you have a good weekend?
I had a very busy day at work on Saturday but then a very relaxing, lazy day yesterday.
My youngest boy is back to school and my oldest has is second from last prelim exam right now.  By this time tomorrow he'll be done and dusted till the big higher exams in the summer.

Today I have a little recycling for you.  The following altered tin is from M & S and I have mountains of them empty at home (what can I say I like the M & S mint tins).
I've been wondering for quite sometime what to do with them.
You know us crafters don't like to throw anything out if we think we can use it in one form or another.
Remember the crochet thistles?
You know the one, my new smaller thistle from earlier last week here, well, that wee beauty fits perfectly in these tins.
Sticking with the Scottish theme the tin had to be altered using some tartan paper.

The tartan paper is by Craftwork cards and the stamp by Unity stamps, which is white embossed and die cut with Spellbinder die labels 4 with some white ink added to give a chalky feel.  I then threaded the back ribbon behind the label and around the back tying to the side to finish.
The thistle was then wrapped in tissue paper inside to finish.

Something a little different from me today!
A change is good as a rest.
That's all from me till tomorrow, I am building up quite a list of card requests here so I better get my mojo in full flow and get into card making mode.

Time to tickle that creative funny bone.....well, it is the weekend!

Good morning, I hope you are all well this weekend?
You know the drill by now I share a couple of funnies on a Saturday to lighten the mood for the weekend.  I hope you enjoy them whilst I'm busy beavering away in work, boo!

This first one is so me.
How many unfinished projects do you have lying around?
I've nearly filled a whole room!

I'm feeling very cool just now!  ;)

Every year I say this will be the year I get out a few unfinished projects and complete them, will it be this year?  

We will have to wait and see.

Friends that I had when I was younger would have laughed at me being told what to do.  I think I was a little stubborn in my youth.  (And I wonder where my youngest gets it from!)

I believe the Navy sorted me on that front even though friends laughed when I went to join.

Little did I know it would come in very handy when years later I learnt to crochet.  

Everything happens for a reason!

Finally it wouldn't be the weekend with a little party!

Hands up if you agree, that's your kind of party?!

How about really pushing the boat out and enjoying a wee glass of something whilst crafting.  

Now that's really partying!

Whatever your plans this weekend, have fun and party your own way.  Enjoy.

It's Friday time to share an oldie.

Whoops bit of a late start for me today.  I have a little one still of sick although he is a lot better than he was.  Don't you just love the germ factor at this time of year?
We also had snow when I got up this morning although now it is raining it has disappeared for which I am grateful.  I have an early start at work tomorrow and am praying that it stays snow free and a little warmer, even if that is not the forecast.

I missed a post yesterday as I had fun and games here.  My carbon monoxide alarm went off during the night.  Scary!
We don't have gas mains in our village so the only thing that could have caused the problem is the fire.  I woke up the kids and took them downstairs, hoping the gasses would tend to go high and ventilated the house.  Of course it was the coldest night we've had for a long while!
Did you know that you have to ring the fire brigade if your carbon monoxide alarm goes off?
I didn't.  I had left it till the morning, leaving the windows open during the night.
All fun and games in the morning with two fire engines and a gas engineer visiting.  What a nice start to the day and everything was found to be fine.  Both the engineer and the firemen thought it was probably a fault with my alarm.
I did think however that as the chimney goes up the side of my youngest boys room that maybe there could be something in it, he is always complaining of not feeling great.  It would make sense.  Mind you my mum gut tells me he just has an allergy to school!
With all the "goings on" yesterday morning for the rest of my day I was playing catch up.
On a good note we're all alive.
Hubby is home later today with jobs a foot over the weekend, first one to install new carbon monoxide alarms.

Back to today and it's Friday, you know what that means by now, share an oldie (any craft product you have made yourself previously posted or not posted at all), link back to me so I can visit and share the love of crafting.  Easy.  I really appreciate all who join me and look forwards to popping to your blogs later.
Today I have picked another card for you.

Nathan is from the Sugar Nellie digital range. 

I just had to use him, not only does he look like my eldest boy at an early age but he also has the same name, spooky!!

I love colouring these digi images as life is made very easy following the shading on the design,

I have used my copics to colour but have added some detail with my prisma pencils too.

The papers are from Basic Grey 6" Basic craft paper pad, distressed with my Tim Holtz distress tool and Tea dye ink. 

I have also used my Martha Stewart punch Scalloped dots, thread from True hemp, SU small tag punch and matching stamps, pearls from Zva Creative and charm from my stash.

I made this card in 2011, yet kraft card still seems to be very popular.  I do love simple sepia tones.

That's all from me today, lots to do after the fun and games yesterday and working tomorrow.

I better start by walking the dog, now the heavy rain has stopped. 

My cunning plan of waiting a wee while has paid off, that isn't normally the case.

Enjoy your weekend, stay warm and cosy.

It sounds like the perfect weather to stay in and craft!  Don't you agree?

Hook, yarn and not at all prickly!

Good afternoon, how are you today?
Bright blue skies today, which is nice but boy there's a nip in the air.  My facial cheeks are still tingling after my brisk afternoon jolly along the beach with my BFF and the dogs.  I think a cup of tea may be the order of the day.
I've had a wee man not feeling well again today and the older one home studying.
For someone not feeling well my youngest has eaten all day!
(The quickest bounce back on record!)
Still with the eldest one home too it meant I could still make my hair appointment this morning.  I now feel lighter and brighter!
Isn't it amazing how a quick trim can make you feel so much better?

I got a crocheting gift from my hubby for Christmas, so I have recently been experimenting with threads and needles.

These are so much easier to work with than the traditional metal hooks and comfortable to use too.

I wanted to make more of my thistle pins and decrease the size a little so out came my cotton yarn and a smaller hook.  This is the first attempt next to my larger original pattern size.

I quite like the new improved size, but I think I need to make myself one in teal!
It must be done.
I made a few of these for Christmas presents, in a presentation box.
I think they'd not only be good for Wedding button holes but also for Burns night or New Year.  What do you think?
And not a prickle in sight!

That's all from me today.
Chores and making tea next, more from me tomorrow.
Happy crafting!

A wee baking interlude.

Good morning, quite a mild morning today and it isn't raining, bonus.
I enjoy a brisk walk along the beach this morning, it felt almost like Spring, not too cold and the sun in the sky.
Today I have a bit of a treat in store.  I have a hot stone massage later.  Can't wait.
Then it should really be back to relax but I have a few chores to do and card orders to start.

Now for something a little different.  Over the weekend I decided to experiment with my muffins again.
I have decided to call this cake my Battenberg muffin.

I had some marzipan left from icing my Christmas cakes so decided to use it in these cakes, I have also swirled some colouring so you get the different colour combination as in a Battenberg cake.
Then topped with some almonds to finish.
I like these cakes and they really taste like Battenberg although next time I think I might grate the marzipan throughout the cake rather than just in the middle.

That's all from me today, I am hoping for some crafting time later in the day but for now I better get the exciting chores done first.  Have a good day.

A little bespoke chef.

Good afternoon, how are you this Monday?
A late post for me today as I have finally given in and done a big food shop.  My last one was before Christmas and I have been eeking my cupboards out since.
Don't get me wrong as I have been to the shops in the meantime but I don't count topping up in the same way as a BIG shop.
It's not my favourite job but needs must.  My cupboards are now full and healthy looking.
I wonder when the boys will notice?

My eldest boy is on study leave just now as he has his higher prelims.  Today he started with an easy one "maths".  I joke!  I am afraid he has lost me when he now shares his maths homework.  It was never one of my stronger classes, personally I think he is speaking a foreign language!
Has he done enough revision?
The proof will be in the pudding!
As he was only in school for his exams I popped to pick him up this afternoon after my youngest had come home for lunch.  I had a few other bits to pick up in town so it seemed like a good idea.
Every wonder where the day goes?  I've only managed some washing and dog walking on top of my running about and now it's time to make tea.
Whilst I am in the kitchen I thought I'd share my first bespoke card of the year.
I was asked for a CAS card for a chef who has turned 21, here is what I made.

I used some scraps of card to make up the apron, chef's hat, knife and wooden spoon, matting and layering on similar colours.

Do you think I am keen for Spring to arrive?
I think I must have been in an optimistic mood when I made this card as it has been another cold dreich day here on the North coast of Scotland.  
Still looking on the bright side our home is warm and dry, after the recent weather situation up here and down in England that is definitely something to be very grateful for.  Some poor folk have lost everything.  What a nightmare.

That is all from me today, I do plan on visiting you a little earlier tomorrow.  Enjoy the rest of your evening.
Anyone else excited to have Silent Witness back on TV?

Happy crafting to you all.

It's Saturday, time to tickle that creative funny bone.

It's that day of the week again where I share a few quotes to start the weekend with a smile.

I don't know about you but at this time of the year I always have this problem.

Is it just me?

If you do find my motivation I would be very grateful it you would return it, thank you.

How about this too.  

This happens to me all the time, especially in my craft room.  If you could see what I can now you would understand why.  ;)

Finally today I have recently been sharing some ideas I have seen on line for gifts. 

Here is another beauty for all those who say they don't want anything at all.

A great idea but would you be cruel enough to pull it off?

That's all from me today, no plans for me this weekend, I'm just going to go with the flow.  

I'm hoping that in with the flow a little crafting might happen too!

It's Friday time to share an oldie.

As Arnold would say "I'm back!"

I'm back to encourage you to join me resurrecting an old blog post, sharing past crafty work with other like minded crafters.  

In order to join me all I ask is that you leave a comment below, then post your oldie on your blog, linking back here.  

This means that I know that you have joined me "sharing an oldie" but more importantly it will allow me to visit all who have.

It can be anything at all that you have made with your own fair hands.  As the saying goes "the more the merrier!"

Today I have a die based card for you.

For this card I have used Madison Square dies by Sue Wilson, with white and navy pearlescent card stock.  The sentiment stamp is by Papertrey ink, Half and half set.  Pearls and ribbon from my stash.

It only remains for me to thank you in anticipation that you have joined me, I look forwards to seeing your work too.

Today I have a little housework, food shopping and ironing on the agenda, can't wait!  Not.

I do however, have the weekend off so I am hoping to get some time and inclination to craft.

Enjoy your weekend.  

I guess being a structural engineer isn't in my remit.

Good afternoon to you and how are you this Thursday?
I've been having a few technical issues here which is also why you haven't seen much of me lately.
Today I have had a day off work and it is horrible outside, dreich is definitely the word I would use and it has been drizzling none stop.  The perfect weather for walking the dog, not!

On Tuesday I mentioned that my youngest boy and I were in the process of making a gingerbread house.
What can I say other than we need to go back to the drawing board or should I say the kitchen. Everything started well.  I had a good thick icing that would hold the house.  The sides and front went well.
The the building took a turn for the worst.....when we added the roof and decided it was going to be snowy!  Lots of icing was added and many sweets and yes, you've guessed it, we had a slight weight problem.
Or put it another way the base collapsed under the lovely snowy roof!
It was looking so good too.
All we did was leave it whilst we had tea and on coming back it was breaking under the strain.
Back to the drawing board.
On the upside we got to eat it.

I also had made a small house from a cutter Karen had bought me whilst in the States.  I had previously tried a different recipe and it had changed shape in the oven.  This recipe was better for shape keeping although I think next time Golden syrup will be the order of the day, if only to get a more golden colour.

It is a super cute size and would be great as little gifts for Christmas, I just need to get a finer nozzle so I can decorate it in more detail.  My youngest said no problem Mum we can soon cover the icing and got out the mini smarties to finish.
I'd like to see it finely iced.

Our little experiment didn't exactly work but the elements were all good individually, I now just need to work on my structural engineer inability!
Maybe I should have rang my brother who is an architect, he could have given me a few pointers before assembly.
At the end of the day we had fun making them, full bellies and a few giggles in the process, which is really what it is all about.
As the saying goes, "if at first you don't succeed....!"
Now we've just got to decide when we are going to attempt mark 2!

That's all from me today.  I have a bespoke card to make this afternoon then I better turn my hand to a few chores.  Enjoy the rest of your day.

I'm starting "Sharing an oldie" back for the New Year tomorrow and would love it if you joined me again.  See you then.

Do you want to build a snowman.

I did!
Good afternoon and HAPPY NEW YEAR to you all.
Where has the last couple of weeks gone?
Today was the day to get back to normal, boys back to school, hubby away with work and me back to work too.

Did you have a good Christmas and New Year?
I hadn't planned on not blogging but with the children and hubby off work and so many other things to do I'm afraid my crafting has had to take a back seat.
You know what it is like at this time of year, socialising with close friends/family!
A good time was had by all and the batteries have been recharged.
Time now to get back into the usual routine.

Before Christmas we had a "wear a Christmas jumper to work" and I couldn't find mine....so the evening before I got an old long sleeved black t shirt and decided to build a snowman.
(I now have the song from Frozen wandering around in my head!)
I did mean to get a photo of the shirt whilst wearing it but it was dark, the lighting is not great at this time of year is it?
Hopefully you will get the idea from this photo.

I used felt and my circular dies to create the body of the snowman and then made the scarf and hat to match.  He was embellished with dress-it up buttons and a couple of mini brooms (I can't remember where I got them).  
The jumper did the job and it saved me from going out and getting a new one especially when we were so busy before Christmas.

I also promised my youngest boy that we would make a gingerbread house at some point over the holiday.  I bought the cutters from Lakeland plastic as it has become a regular make here but I usually buy the boys the kits.  This year we've braved the "doing it from scratch!"
We actually only got around to baking the house yesterday, it was still in the Christmas holidays, just!
Tonight once I've picked my other son up, walked the dog and put the tea on, my youngest with a little help from mum will be decorating it or as I like to call it, icing it whilst eating all the sweeties.
This is what we have to work with.

The recipe came with the cutters, the reason it looks dark is that it was photographed when dark outside but also we used treacle not golden syrup.  The recipe said to use either Black treacle or Golden syrup.  The biscuit is lovely but I sometimes think kids prefer the sweetness of Golden syrup.

Time for me to go and pick my other boy up.
I'll be back later to see what crafty things you've been up to over the festive season.

A little break in the proceedings with a floral tribute.

Good afternoon.  Merry Christmas everyone!  Did you survive?
We had a very quiet one with me working up to Christmas and hubby working the next few days we didn't travel to catch up with family but had a nice relaxing time at home.
I finally sat down at 10 p.m. on Christmas eve with everything done and dusted except for the baking I had planned to do, which I shall do this week instead.  I don't think it matters if we make a gingerbread house before or after Christmas, do you?
This was my final job on Christmas eve....

Throwing together a Christmas table decoration whilst supping a wee glass of mulled wine.

The boys got what they wanted for Christmas and soon disappeared upstairs to play leaving me to get one with the dinner.
The dog was the funniest, she tried to get up around 5 and was straight to her presents starting to open them.  She's worse than the kids, they actually managed to wait till 6.30!
You think they'd get later as they get older but mine don't, they've always been early risers.
I got a few crafty bits and baking bits which I am looking forwards to playing with but my main present was a fitbit or as the male members of the house have named it "a fatbit!"
This is because other than cooking, play board games, watch TV and eat I have done very little over the last couple of days.
Today was a day to catch up with some jobs around the house, do some washing, make Christmas soup with the last of the left overs and then head to the cinema.
We had planned to see the new Star Wars film but when we got there it was full.  Instead I managed a quick visit into work to top up on supplies and bagging myself a few lingering bargains (if you know what I mean?!)

As for the rest of the day I think we are planning a film at home instead, popcorn at the ready.
I really should be taking advantage of this time to get in some crafting, I don't know about you, my enthusiasm to craft always takes a head dive after Christmas.
I'm away to try and remove my boys from the electronics for a little family time instead.
Catch you soon.

Who doesn't love a Gingerbread man?

Good evening and how are you this Tuesday?

Another busy day at work today, phew, glad that's over!

Only one more day for me to work as I am off Christmas Eve.

I'll let you into a secret, I think I quite like it at work when it is crazy busy, I must be mad.

Tonight I really need to get myself into gear and get some more wrapping done and dusted.

Tea first and then time to get busy.

One of my pals at work had asked me could I make this card as a friend was having trouble getting something suitable for a wee boy to give to his parents.  Apparently in the shops you can get for the female equivalent but not the male.  In the present climate I think this is unfair to have for one gender and not the other so I gladly agreed to make the card.

What better die than a Christmas Gingerbread man?

The die is by Sizzix and I have used kraft card, scraps of red gingham and card.  The eyes are brads and then I've used white pen and Distress ink Vintage photo to finish before matte and layering on coordinated cardstock.  Inside reads "Looking forwards to a "sweet" Christmas with you both".

I do love to get feedback and apparently both Daddies loved it.  Bargain.

That's all from me today, I better go and see how tea is getting on.  

Enjoy the rest of your evening.

And now time for a little CAKE!

Good evening, how are you this Monday evening?
I had a crazy Saturday at work and an even crazier day today.  Food glorious food, oh me oh my, how much?
All for a couple of days.
Sunday was supposed to be spent getting my final shopping done, Christmas food and wrapping as my boys were having a day out together.  Unfortunately my little one decided he didn't want go so all my plans went out of the window.  I am even further behind the drag curve now!
I did manage a little wrapping of certain things, if you know what I mean.  I also managed to finally ice my Christmas cakes.  I  may have made them early but it was last minute decorating again.

The first one I decorated with the children in mind, although they don't eat Christmas cake.

A little penguin island with a little pond.  I melted some boiled sweets and blue food colouring to create the pond.  The penguins were made by my crafty friend Elaine, I did use them last year too but they're too cute not to use again.
I was a little disappointed with my icing on the sides because it was dark and late in the day when I did it and I missed a couple of air bubbles.  It's too late in the day to worry about it, I have minimised them as much as I can and it will still taste the same.
My second cake I have gone for more of an adult theme.

This cake iced much better but once finished I wish I'd made the snowflakes thinner.  I know for next time.
This crafting lark is a constant learning curve!
Each time I try something I learn more on what not to do next time and how to improve what I am doing.  Always aiming for perfection and never quite getting there.  At least the curve is going up the way and I am learning and not down.
On the upside I cut into this one this evening and it is good, very moist and boozy, just how I like it.

Another crazy day at work tomorrow and Wednesday then it will be all hands on deck at home to try and get everything sorted for Christmas day.  How are your plans coming on?
I hope you are having more success than I am.
Enjoy your Monday evening and I shall have more again for you tomorrow.

It's the weekend and you know what that means....time to tickle that creative funny bone with a festive feel.

Good morning and how are you this Saturday?

Are you nearly ready for the big event?

I am having traditional crafting withdrawal symptoms as work increases, and the final Christmas preparations.  Bah Humbug!

Today are wearing Christmas jumpers at work, I couldn't find mine.  Oh no!  

I did the only thing a crafter would do, got out an old long sleeved t-shirt and altered it.  

I must take a photo to show you next week.

As I am rushing about wishing I had extra arms and legs at work, also wishing I was twenty years younger these are the final crafty funnies before Christmas.  Have you made everything you planned to?

I have still got a few things in mine but I probably won't get the chance now.  

I  always seem to say next year!

On the upside I made more gifts and cards this year than I have in a while so that has to be a good thing.  

This first quote is for those of you who are hard core crocheters who have the sheer determination to get all those gifts finished in the next six days.  Good luck. 

This made me giggle.  Us crafters are an easy bunch to please at Christmas, you name it, buttons, ribbon, paper, thread, yarn, material, even glue or sticky tape.  

All or any of the above would easily keep us happy especially if we got the time to create too.

Finally I haven't ever thought of my yarn stash like this but this quote made me smile.  

To me I now have a perfectly good reason to stock up on yarn.  Mind you looking at the weather we have had over the last couple of days I think we'll be needing our woollies for the Spring.

It's Friday, time to share an oldie.

I was sat looking at the computer and the dates, whilst thinking of what to write today, this time next week it will be Christmas morning. 
This therefore will be the last oldie before the "big day," I know both you and I will have plenty to do on Christmas morning, usually in the kitchen.

Are you joining me for the first time?
If so, on a Friday I re-share an old crafty project, re-blogging something I have made in the past.  I also encourage you to join me.  It can be anything that you have made yourself, all I ask is that you comment below.  This is purely to let me know you are joining in, it makes it easy for me to then pop over to your blog and share the love of crafting, I will comment on all.

Today I have my last Christmas oldie to share till next year.  This is what I have picked.

To make this box I have used Spellbinder Grand Hexagon Petal envelope die together with the A4 embossing folder Lattice.  I have also used a roll of acetate with Spellbinder dies Create a flake 3 and 2010 Snowflake pendant. 
The hexagon envelopes create the top and bottom of the box and I have used 8 of the snowflake die inside to create the 3D snowflake, I recommend using paper rather than card as it makes threading the ribbon and a bell easier for hanging inside the box.  The snowflakes on the top are the 2010 pendant and Create a flake 3 layered on top with 3D foam.

It isn't the best of photographs but if you click on it the bigger size gives you a better idea.
I have finished the festive season with a box instead of a card but you can share any crafting project.

That's all from me today, I am working again today and tomorrow, then a busy run up to Christmas eve next week.  It's going to get a little bit crazy in the next 7 days.
I'd like to take the opportunity to thank you for taking the time to join me today, I look forwards to blog hopping later this evening to see what you have shared too.

I hope you have a super weekend and a lot more fun than I guarantee I will be having at work.
Ho, ho, ho!

Doggonit....don't forget your handmade gifts for pets at Christmas!

I had actually planned this next present over the weekend having printed a dog biscuit recipe from the wonderful site that is Pinterest.
Then imagine my surprise when Kirstie made something similar this week on her show, how did she know?!
There are loads of recipes out there for making your own dog treats, I went for a simple one with only four ingredients and cut them in Christmas stars.  Mine contain oats, banana, coconut oil and peanut butter.  Holly loves peanut butter!
I made enough for two jars, one for Holly and one for my BFF dog.
Here is the finished result.

Photographed at a jaunty wee angle!  Can you see the biscuits, they're the same colour as my unit, I think I should have noticed that earlier.
I have added the ingredients to the back of the labels and instructions to keep them fresh.
On the upside Holly, my chief tester loved them.  Bargain.
I don't think I'll be buying anymore dog treats.

Why not pick a recipe and give it a go?
I have recycled a couple of jam jars, sterilising them, as I would if making jam.
The twine is by Boutique and the stamped image on kraft is by Unity stamps.  Simples!

Another present ticked off the gift list plus they're the perfect job to get the children to help with, unfortunately mine are now of the age where a constant electrical supply is a necessity.

Back to today I shall hopefully have taken my wee man to school enabling me to get to work.
This should be followed by more of the usual house tasks and if I'm lucky a little more wrapping.
Enjoy your Thursday folks, apparently we are going to have lovely weather.  If only the nights were getting lighter then we could enjoy it after work.  

Do you have any traditions at Christmas time that you like to follow?

Good morning and how are you today?
It was grotty out earlier with the dog, wet, wet, wet, only made better with my BFF joining me as we both have the day off.
This morning I was supposed to be going to see my youngest boys Christmas play but I was called at work yesterday and asked to collect him, as he was unwell.  I only had a couple of hours left of my shift so my hubby had a longer lunch until I could get home, hence no post from me yesterday.
On the upside the wee man seemed to have bounced back quickly and although looking a little pale, he is feeling a bit better.
I do think sometimes at this time of year, come the end of the term all that is going on can get too much.  The kids are excited to be breaking up for the holidays but tired also.

I don't know about you but crafting seems to have taken a back seat or so I thought till I watched Kirstie Allsopp's show again last night, it got me thinking.
I might not be making anything just now but I am still crafting in my own way.
I have been wrapping presents. (I would have loved to have done that wrapping competition on the show last night!)  I like to wrap in batches rather than leave all till last minute.  I find that way I spend a little more time and effort with each one, especially those going outside the family.
I've also got a table decoration to do but for that I need a wee trip into the woods and a pair of garden secateurs, that might have to wait till Sunday.   Can I find my oasis, I am sure I have some in my craft room, any ideas where I might have put it?

First I thought I would share one of my traditions with you.
Every Christmas I like to either make or buy a new tree decoration.  Over the years I have done both, when I first had a tree and had no decorations I made mostly.  When the boys were small they enjoyed making decorations too.  Then there is always the opportunity whilst Christmas shopping to pick up something new or a little different.
Over the years I have collected lots of different styles of decorations but red seems to be my favourite shade, as for the style I think the American New England style sums me up best.
Today I thought I'd share with you one of my favourite handmade tree decorations and one of my bought ones.
Do you have a favourite too?  I'd love to hear what it is.

First the handmade one, this is a bit sparkling to be a rustic New England style but what I love about it is, being made with foam and sequins once on the tree the light hits it and it sparkles beautifully.
I bought this in a kit over 25 years ago and it still comes out every Christmas, I have never grown tired of my Santa's boots (I have a pair).  I firmly believe it is because of the way the light hits them whilst hanging on the tree.

A very simple idea but just perfect for a Christmas tree.

My bought Christmas decoration is a little more rustic and right up my street, again probably bought at least 16 years ago.  As soon as I saw this wee chap I just had to have him.

I can't decide whether his is supposed to be a reindeer or a moose but either way he is fab.

Finally I have finished feeding my Christmas cakes, they're nice and soggy now and probably a little lethal.  :)

All marzipanned up and ready to be iced.  I can't decide whether to go for a clean and simple white effect or more traditionally decorated.  With two I guess I could do one of each.  Decisions, decisions.

I better go and see how my wee man is and try and get some lunch down him.  I think today is going to be a quiet one.  Maybe a little housework and baking will be the order of the day.  Enjoy your Wednesday, more from me tomorrow.

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!

Ho, ho, ho!
It's definitely coming now.

Not the best light to take a photograph, but it was dark going to work and then going dark coming home too.  You get the idea.  The tree is over six foot but is doesn't look that big in the photo, we have high ceilings which makes it look a lot smaller.

You will also be pleased to hear that the suite arrived at long last on Friday, this is the chair that everyone wants to sit in.

It's so big you can get two people in it and it rotates around, which as you can imagine the boys think is great fun.  The carpet looks beige in the photo but it is actually a warmer grey.
I have had a quiet weekend, getting jobs done, decorating and chilling with my boys.  On Saturday evening I enjoyed my first glass of mulled wine whilst watching Strictly, together with some homemade mince pies.
To be honest I don't know where the weekend went.  I guess time always flies when having fun!

On to today and after a busy day at work I have some wrapping to do this evening.  I hate leaving it all till Christmas eve.  I have a couple of presents to post too so I need to get them away.
That's all from me today I better go and think about starting the tea.  Enjoy your evening.  
"What no crafting!"  I am having withdrawal symptoms but it is always the same at this time of year, too many other things to be doing.

Time to tickle you funny bone, festive style.

Good morning, a lazy start to the day for me today.  Today I am hoping to get my Christmas head on.  I had been really looking forwards to going to the Victorian market.  My hubby has been away all week again, he had mentioned the market to me.  Only problem is he told me it was this Saturday and it turns out it is next week!  When I am working.  Boo! 
So today I shall be getting the house sorted for Christmas and maybe it is time to get the marzipan on my Christmas cakes.  I did have time off work next week but I had a call yesterday which means come Monday I shall be working most days till the magic day.  Best I get organised then!
I did half expect it as work can be crazy busy at this time of year.  Ho, ho, ho.

Today's funnies have a festive feel so lets get started.

Not everyone appreciates homemade gifts! 

I love the look on this child's face. 

You can just tell he really wanted a bunny suit instead of a boring old iPad! 

Personally come Easter I think this costume would fab for delivering eggs.

Moving to snow, I think I won't look at snowflakes the same again!

Giving credit where it is due, Mr Snowman is very talented.

Finally do you remember the toilet roll I posted recently? 

I've found another one for you.

Is it just me or should the final word not be behind?!
I can think of another word that would fit better, can't you?  :)
You really would have to know the person well to get away with this present.

That's all from me today.  Have a super weekend.
For all that asked my new suite did arrive eventually around 8 with a very apologetic driver.  He'd been on the road since 6 in the morning.  That is a long day, especially with another hours drive to return the lorry before going home.  Phew. 
I took pity on him and his helper and made tea, biscuits and mince pies. 
All was well at the end of the day and my suite is lovely.

Time for me to go and get my Christmas head on.  Enjoy your weekend and the run up to Christmas.  I might not get much crafting time in the coming week as we ramp up for the final onslaught at work.  It can get quite frantic and tiring.
I'm so glad I work part-time.
More from me soon.

Share an oldie.....it's that time again. FRIDAY!

Good morning, it's that time of the week where I encourage you to re-post an old crafting make or as I have named it "sharing an oldie!"
Today's oldie from me is another Christmas card.....not long now.

This Spellbinder die is 2012 Heirloom ornament with papers from MME 12 days of Christmas.  The bauble is created using 8 dies glued together and I have made a gusset at the bottom of the card to hold it together when standing which is concertinaed so it will still fold flat to go into an envelope.  The sentiment is by PI and comes from Kirsty Wiseman's Many Greetings.  The card size is C6 but long ways on (11 x 29.8 cms (A4 length)).

I'd love it if you would join me sharing your oldie, all I ask is that you leave a wee message below, that is the only way I will know you have joined me.  
I'd like the opportunity to visit your blog too and leave you feedback.  I will visit all over the coming weekend.  
Lets share the joy of crafting!

I have this weekend off work.  Yippee.  I can't wait. 
There is a Victorian market in our local town so I am looking forwards to that.  
Have a good one!

I'm still waiting.

Today didn't turn out as planned.  The morning was good.  A long walk with the dog along the beach with the "wake you up" freshness that is a Scottish winter morning.  Back home I had my cleaning head on.  This doesn't happen very often so I took full advantage of it.  The front room and bathroom were bottomed as was one of the boys bedrooms.
I'm now waiting!
My suite was supposed to be delivered between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. which meant I had to make arrangements for my eldest to get home via different means and for the dog to be walked as I waited. It is now after 7 p.m and I am still sat waiting.....it's just like watching paint dry.

Only I have to say without the sofa!
Grrrr!
I'm now beginning to wish I'd ordered from work and not DFS at Inverness.
Up to now the after service hasn't been great.
Am I the only one that gets frustrated waiting for a delivery especially if they don't come when they say they will?  Surely I can't be?
I don't really feel I can start something in case I have to stop in mid flow.
Not a happy bunny today but hopefully they might make it before bedtime?!

A little golden number.

Good evening all.  How are you this Wednesday?
Another busy day in this house with lots going on.  Today I thought I'd share with you a little more of the same but this time a golden number.

Anyone else finding photographing work a problem at the moment?
It is dark when I head to work and dark when I get home.
It doesn't make for the best samples sorry.
Again I have used my Imagination crafts products.
I think it is time to now put them away and get something else out!
I do like that tree though, can you tell?

I'm away to pick my youngest up now as he has had his school dance tonight.  He has gone out looking very smart in new jeans, yes I eventually got a pair.  I know to most it wouldn't be smart but jeans and a shirt when you always wear joggers and a t-shirt, is smart!
I hope he has enjoyed his dancing as it is a traditional Scottish dancing night and not a disco.  One thing for sure if he has been dancing all evening he'll be shattered.

Enjoy the rest of your evening, I hope to get to you a little earlier tomorrow as I am off work.  I shall be at the hairdressers at some point for a quick cut and tidy before Christmas and then waiting in for my new furniture to be delivered.
Catch you tomorrow.

Adding a little sparkle to the end of the day.

Good evening and how are you tonight?
I have finally sat down after another busy day.  It will soon be time to chillaxe but first I wanted to share this with you.
A little sparkle for your evening, remember the production line, well this is the purple version of an earlier card.

Again I have used my Imagination stencil and glitter matting onto purple card with the sentiment from Waltzing Mouse stamps.

I had another busy day at work followed by a trip to the dentist with the boys today.  Home in time for tea and a wet dark walk with the dog, before cracking on with my chores.  Not a very exciting day I'm afraid.
Now it is time to go and get my youngest organised for bed.
Enjoy the rest of your evening and more from me tomorrow.

A felting good work out!

Good morning to you and how are you this Monday morning?
The weather is 50/50 here, if I look out the back, bright blue skies, if I look out the front there is a very dark grey cloud approaching.
My walk along the beach today was a tad chilly and wet, the perfect combination to wake you up for the day whether you want to be or not!
Did you have a good weekend?
I had a VERY busy day at work Saturday, it is definitely Christmas and only set to get worse.
Boo!
Everyone out shopping in festive spirit, NOT!  The joys of retail.  There are advantages to working in the cold room out of sight at this time of year.
We were supposed to have my hubby's night out with work in the evening but having been up since five and on the go all day my energy levels were shouting for a quiet night in, relaxing.
Mrs Sociable!
Plus I had a busy day crafting on Sunday to pack for at our Christmas crop which runs all day rather than just for the afternoon.  We all take food and drink and have a right good craft, chat and feast.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day getting another Christmas present sorted and having a right good felting work out in the process.  I made another version of the bag I made recently.

Before I tried felting I didn't realise how much of a workout it is.  It fairly give those bingo wings a good thrashing.  Then I like the feeling that you've worked on something, I feel the same about work. 

If you don't come home shattered then you're not working hard enough!

Other news from the weekend, can you believe the gorgeous Aljaz and Helen are out of Strictly?  I can't believe that the two couples in the dance off were indeed in the dance off. They should never have been there, but that is just my opinion.  

As for the Jungle I was made up that the "Geordie lass" Vicky won, showing that us Northern lasses are right grand and down to earth, and get stuck into anything and give it a go.  Mind you I think I would have drawn the line at eating a live spider!  Ferne deserved a medal for that.  The poor spider.

I'm working again tomorrow and Wednesday with appointments for the boys after but I do hope to catch you at some point of the day.  Time now for me to crack on with the ironing then I might get some cards finished later in the day.  Enjoy your Monday and I hope you weren't badly affected by the rain this weekend, some areas have had a horrendous time, just before Christmas too, what a nightmare for them.

Stay dry and more from me soon, happy crafting.  

It's Saturday time to tickle that creative funny bone.

Good morning all and how are you this Saturday?
I have programmed this to post whilst I am beavering away at work, here's the funny crafty quotes that tickled my fancy this week!

How about a Christmas wish list?

Spot on and a great list thanks to the guys at Sizzix.  I think I would be happy with any of the above. 
Or how about this, to be a little subtler?

I think that covers it don't you?

Finally have you got this feeling yet?  Every year I have big plans to make lots of Christmas presents and I don't think I ever have finished in time.  I don't however beat myself up anymore, if it doesn't get done, it doesn't get done.
But this has been me in previous years.

Not any more.  If it gets done great, if it doesn't never mind, there is always next year!

That's all from me today, I must get packed up ready for my Christmas crop tomorrow. 
A day of crafty fun, yippee.
More from me on Monday, I hope you enjoyed the quotes I picked out for you today?

Sharing an oldie this Friday.

It's that time again folks, it's FFFriday.  Time to share an old crafting project with me today.  It can be anything you have made yourself and you can have posted it before.  All I ask is that you leave a comment below, it is the only way that I know you are playing along and it means I can visit your blog and share the love of crafting. 
My project for today is this....

I have used;  

Sugar Nellie stamp Rosie.

Gingham Paper by MM kids collection Sam.  Craft and white from my stash.

Spellbinder Nestabilities dies Classic round and Lacey circles,

plus Shapeabilites Holiday tags.

Cuttlebug embossing die spots.

Sentiment stamp by Walzingmouse stamps from their new Complements of the Season range.

Red lace and white seam binding.

White liquid pearl.

Image is coloured with my Prisma pencils and stitched on my machine.

I'd love it if you would join me sharing an old crafty project today, and thank you in anticipation.

A day off for me today, time to catch up with the housework and I better get some food shopping in too.  Then I have a busy Saturday at work tomorrow followed by my Christmas crop on Sunday.  It's going to be a busy weekend.  I hope you have a good one too.

A little foodie interlude.

Good evening to you all, how are you this Thursday?

Another busy day in work today, it is definitely beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.  I don't know where the time has gone this evening. 
Well I do, I have been on line shopping for trousers to fit my youngest.  Who would have thought it could be so difficult?  I can't buy from the high street for him and all on line stores were out of stock.  I ended up ringing Sturdy Kids.  What a lovely lady and so very helpful, I rang at five, a bit late in the day but she still rang me back within the hour with a choice.  Order done and dusted!
He usually lives in joggers but has a formal dance at school next week and wanted something smart.
Does anyone else have this problem?
My eldest was the opposite he could never keep a pair of trousers up when he was younger.
I'd love to be able just to take him shopping the normal way.

Back to today and after cooking tea I decided as the cupboards are getting a little bare I'd bake.  I also had some homemade chunky apple sauce that I had taken out of the freezer and it needed using. 
This is what I came up with.....

Apple Strudel muffins with a crispy crumble top.  I did adapt the recipe as it should have had a grated apple in and I used my apple sauce instead.  They were very yummy warm with a little cream.  Nomm, nomm.
The Christmas diet starts now, LOL. 

I hope you have had a good Thursday?
I'm going to put my feet up now and check out what is going on in the jungle. 
More from me tomorrow with a Christmas oldie. 

Going back in time, crafty style of course.

Good afternoon and how are you this Wednesday afternoon?
I've had a super day today.  My BFF and I had a ride through to Inverness Christmas shopping after dropping the kids at school.
I have managed to get quite a few stocking fillers and had a lovely lunch at Simpsons Garden centre, lots of chatting and great company.  I really don't know why we don't do it more often!

Yesterday time just disappeared after getting home from work for my youngest.  I then had the dog to walk and a couple of parcels to drop off, by the time we got to the beach it was BLACK, oh my, half past four and it was dark.  Boo, hiss, I hate these dark nights.
I then had to pick my eldest boy from rugby and he also had an optical appointment.  By the time we got home, had tea and tidied up it was time for Kirsties new series  Homemade Christmas.  I love her Christmas show.
Oh I also had an early pressie arrive which needed sorting, a new American style fridge freezer!  It nearly didn't get in the house, having to remove a door or two to actually get it into the kitchen.
It is very smart and has a drinks dispenser so it is a hit with the boys.  I like the fact it is lovely and clean!  (Not that my other fridge was bad, honest!  But you know what I mean.)
Plus it has a digital temperature control display.  Since working in M & S I have become rather obsessive about fridge temperatures, it is one of my job requirements to monitor them.
Isn't it funny what makes you happy!

Back to crafting and I was recently asked for a card with cross stitch on it, as the recipient was a keen stitcher.  It is many years since doing any cross stitch and I have to admit I think in that time the holes have shrunk!  My new bifocals were on, then off, then on again.  The joys of getting older.  I used to smile when my mum asked me to thread her needles for her, that time has come!  Still I did enjoy picking up cotton thread again.  This is what I came up with.

I had forgotten how long it takes to stitch.  Some crafts are so much quicker than others, don't you agree?
I went with the flow for this using red and gold thread, then added a little bling to sparkle.

That's all from me today I can hear the calling of a lesser spotted kiddywink "MUM!"  Which can only mean one thing it must be feeding time!
Enjoy the rest of your evening.  Another day in work tomorrow but hopefully I will catch you later.